Last Sunday, the export from Mallorca, Sa Pobla, of new potatoes of the variety Lady Christl to the United Kingdom and Scandinavia started.
However, Majorca exporters are still concerned about the uncertainty surrounding Brexit.
Joan Mateu, Chairman of Mateu Export: “The flexibility is over and we have to wait and see how the UK will specify the requirements from now on.” The UK represents 25% of Sa Pobla’s potato export market. “It would be difficult to replace this market.”
Phytosanitary control is another problematic factor. The Balearic Islands are the only potato-growing area in Spain that is free from Epitrix, the beetle found in many potato varieties. “Growers in the Balearic Islands,” notes Mateu, “are not required to wash potatoes before they are exported. But maintaining proper phytosanitary control is a challenge.
This year’s exports are expected to be regular. The weather can still cause disruptions, because late frost is still possible. In general, however, the quality of the potatoes is good and the starting date of exports is as it has generally been for several decades.
Source: majorcadailybulletin.com
